Areas that don’t have ductwork, including an addition, sunroom or garage, can be tricky to heat and cool. Lengthening ductwork from an existing system could be pricey. And that additional square footage could just be too big for your home comfort equipment to take on, since your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a wise option for these areas because it doesn’t require ductwork. This combined heating and cooling system has two pieces: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s frequently called a mini-split heat pump as it moves heating and cooling, in place of making it. Because of that, mini-splits are highly energy-efficient, with many achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the right model for your house may feel like a large task, but our heating and cooling specialists at Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC can help. We’ll start with a no-obligation meeting to review your needs before offering you a free estimate. We’ll also go over any special offers, rebates and financing you might be eligible for.

Here’s about how much you can plan to spend when you’re buying a ductless mini-split.

Estimated Cost for Mini-Split Installation

One of the most popular sizes is a 12,000 BTU mini-split. This will heat and cool approximately 450–550 square feet, or roughly the size of a studio apartment.

With professional installation, the usual mini-split cost for this size is approximately $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide expenses for common home improvement jobs.

Your total mini-split installation cost will differ based on the type you go with and how energy efficient it is. According to HomeAdvisor, other additional costs could involve:

  • Installing a concrete pad for the outdoor condenser, $75–$300.
  • Installing a dedicated electrical circuit, $250.
  • Upgrading the electrical panel, $1,200. This could be needed if you have an older house.

Will a New Mini-Split|Do Mini-Splits|Can a High Efficiency Mini-Split} Receive Any Tax Credits?

Buying an ENERGY STAR-certified ductless mini-split can qualify you for valuable tax credits. The mini-split tax credit is $300 for certain systems installed at your house through December 31, 2021. We recommend talking with your tax professional for more info.

Energy companies in Ellsworth also often give rebates for installing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you navigate this process to ensure you receive the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Is Installing a Mini-Split Worth the Cost?

Although installing a mini-split is usually pricier than typical heating and cooling systems, it’s a highly efficient way to heat and cool troublesome areas in your residence. These include:

  • Additions.
  • Garages.
  • Sunrooms.
  • Areas you don’t use very regularly.
  • Locations with hot and cold spots.

ENERGY STAR also advises using mini-splits in homes with unique challenges, like:

  • Costly electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Costly central heat, either due to high fuel expenses or decreased efficiency.
  • Older homes that don’t have ductwork due to radiator or baseboard heat.

In comparison to regular electric heating and cooling, ENERGY STAR says a mini-split can save you up to 30% on cooling and up to 60% on heating. You’ll also get exact control over temps from room to room, as a result of zoned mini-split technology.

Our Pros Can Take Care of All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you choose the ideal model to expertly installing it, our pros at Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 715-318-6728 now to learn how a mini-split system can make your house more comfortable and to request your free estimate!